The Best Protein Powder

What is the best protein powder to buy? I get this question all the time, and really, there is no best protein - many are very good for different reasons! In my opinion, it is futile and possibly detrimental to stick to only one brand for the following reasons:

a) I always recommend that you cycle your supplements so that your body does not get used to them thereby decreasing their effect,

b) for variety sakes alone, it breaks the monotony and allows you to try different brands,

c) to take advantage of the unique qualities offered by various brands, and

d) it is a good idea to switch the powders you use on a frequent basis to not develop any food intolerances or even worse allergies (I have an article coming out on this subject in the near future.) A blend that combines various protein sources (i.e. casein, egg, whey, and even beef if you can find it) is your best bet. I highly recommend the following: MD+ Myosin Protein Complex, Beverly International Muscle Provider, Biotest Low-Carb GROW!, and Dorian Yates Approved ProPeptide.

High-quality whey protein powders are excellent choices for post- workout nutrition since they get into your system fast to feed those depleted muscles. Casein, on the other hand, is a slow releasing protein as it recurdles into a solid in your gut prolonging digestion - this would be an ideal choice prior to your workouts or before going to bed. Anyhow, as far as whey powders are concerned, amino acid complex profile determines quality. I have in my possession a list of protein powders that were analyzed for quality by an independent laboratory, but since I don't want any of these companies breathing down my neck, I will only divulge that information to my clients. Remember one thing, you get what you pay for! Keep that in mind. Also, some people are quite sensitive to aspartame and lactose so you will have to find free versions of those. Taste will ultimately determine whether you purchase that powder again. Write in with some of your feedback on these products - I'd love to hear your comments.

One more thing, you could even mix protein powder into other foods to up the protein content and improve the flavor. Mixing protein powder in (slow-cooked) oatmeal is one option, but here's another. I call it my "bedtime concoction." Add a scoop of Xtreme Formulations Ultra Peptide (vanilla) to a mixture of ricotta (whey) and cottage (casein) cheese. Not only does this provide both an anabolic and anticatabolic effect during sleep, it also tastes amazing - it's like eating the cream filling of a cannoli without the pastry shell! Try it.

John Paul Catanzaro is a certified kinesiologist and professional fitness and lifestyle consultant with a specialized honours Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology and Health Science. He owns and operates a private gym in Toronto, Ontario providing training and nutritional consulting services. For additional information, visit his website at www.BodyEssence.ca or call 416-292-4356.


What You Need To Know About Inflammation

Inflammation is not a disease.Inflammation is best described as a... Read More

Nutrition Tips to Improve Fat Loss

Incorporating these fat loss tips will improve your nutrition program.... Read More

Ultra Refined Fish Oil - The New Generation of Fish Oil

Dr. Barry Sears revolutionized nutritional thinking around the world with... Read More

The Cost Of Being Sick And One Possible Alternative: Glyconutrition

A lot of people I've talked with about health supplements... Read More

Let Your Freezer Be Your Ally!

Most recipes end with instructions to "serve immediately." You could... Read More

Five Reasons You Should Drink More Water

I know you've heard this many times - "Drink more... Read More

Adding to Your Level of Health is the Key

Here is a continuation of the light and darkness metaphor:... Read More

The Omega Zone Diet and Fish Oil

The Omega Zone Diet and specialists' opinion"Omega RX Zone -... Read More

When You Eat at the Fridge

I spent a few days at a resort in Mexico... Read More

Do You Eat Breakfast?

It is not a myth. Eating breakfast is an important... Read More

Put a Zing in your Step with Ginger!

Zingiber officinale has been held in the highest regard by... Read More

Green Tea and Cholesterol Facts

A green and lush oasis in the middle of a... Read More

The Toxic Truth About Artificial Sweeteners

The problem with sugar is that it doesn't contain any... Read More

Things You Should Know about Vitamin K?s Unique Power

How well do you know about vitamin K? This vitamin... Read More

That Cookie Might Kill You!

Chances are you may have had a food product that... Read More

The Myths Associated with Human Growth Hormone

I would like to dispel some of the myths and... Read More

Nutrition For Your Young Athlete

Nutrition is extremely important for any young person, especially an... Read More

The Importance of Protein

Protein is one of the basic building blocks of the... Read More

Soy Phytoestrogens and the Art of Propaganda

In this newsletter we will discuss the current controversy about... Read More

Children Get Constipated, Too

Do you notice your child putting off going to the... Read More

Are You Lactose Intolerant?

Do you know anyone who can't consume milk or milk-based... Read More

Maximizing Your Nutrition Dollar

Because of consumer demand, the food industry focus is on... Read More

Cherries Taste Great and Build Health

You must add some fresh cherries, which are now in... Read More

Four Important Nutrients - Vitamin E, Selenium, Sodium and Potassium ? For Good Health

Vitamin EThere has been a lot of controversy about vitamin... Read More

The Business Traveler?s Diet Problem: Staying Fit When on the Run

Despite the fact that accurate nutrition information can be accessed... Read More